Neuropsychological aspects of type of epilepsy and etiological factors in adults

Whether certain types of epilepsies and etiologies are related to profiles of cognitive impairment is of interest for diagnostics and treatment. The dichotomy between generalized and focal epilepsies (mesial temporal lobe, frontal lobe, parietal, and occipital lobe epilepsies) is considered. Then the most frequent etiologies are discussed. We conclude that specific associations between neuropsychological deficits and type of epilepsy and etiology are rather exceptions. However, knowledge of the type of epilepsy and pathology provides eminent information to evaluate the nature of deficits, to estimate chances of functional recovery, to provide rehabilitation recommendations, and to support decisions about treatment options.